2 Massage Tools Every Runner Needs for Sore Muscles

Runners can be creatures of habit. We typically train the same time each day, have a slight meltdown if our favorite shoe is about to retire and never EVER try new food in the days leading up to a big race. For me, my massage routine is no different.

While it may seem odd to have a massage routine; in struggling with a rather persistent hamstring injury, twice monthly massages paired with at home “maintenance” have been key to my staying healthy and strong this season.

My massage routine may be habitual, but I do experiment with the tools I use. While I have my favorites, I’m always looking to expand my collection in hopes that I may find a new gem.

This spring, the kind folks at TolaPoint and Moji sent over a few new products for us to try and I’ll say that after 30 days with both tools – they’ve both not only made the list but have risen to the top of my list of go-to tools.

TolaPoint

Local to Minnesota, TolaPoint ­is an entire trigger point system and I’ll cut to the chase – it’s simply amazing and hands down the best trigger point tool I’ve ever used. It’s a unique system that includes assembly options that are nearly endless.

How Does TolaPoint Work?

TolaPoint comes with three “Points” in various sizes (think the size of an elbow, the size of a thumb and the size of something in between an elbow and a thumb). There are also three bases for the points to rest on – two angled bases which can be used alone or stacked, allowing for more pinpointed precision as well as a base that rocks allowing the user to leverage mobility to really get at a nagging spot. Finally, there are two straps available to secure around a door or another stable fixture or, like I did, attach the smaller strap to a foam roller.

The possibilities and combinations are endless and honestly a little overwhelming, so it’s great that a booklet comes with each system (which is also available from the website) explaining assembly and massage instructions for each part of the body.

Cost: $40-$60 (depending on system options)

Pros: The low price point and versatility of this tool was astounding to me. I used it on my high hamstring, glutes, tensor fascia latae (hip), lower back, neck and foot. I typically use four different tools to cover these areas, but with easy adjustments in assembly, this tool was able to handle each spot I cover in my nightly routine. Unlike my Theracane, I don’t need to use any upperbody pressure to use the tool and unlike my TriggerPointTherapy balls, the points don’t rollout from underneath me (or end up in my dog’s mouth).

Cons: If you’re not used to trigger point therapy, it can seem a little intense – maybe even painful. With the TolaPoint system, you’re able to modify it and start slowly (using the largest point and least about of body weight/pressure) being able to breathe deeply and relax into the pressure until the knot relaxes or releases.

Moji

The Moji Foot Pro while a little less complex doesn’t disappoint. I don’t have Plantar Fasciitis, but my arch in my right foot gets pretty tight on a regular basis. My tight arch coupled with a new job that has me wearing heels a few times a week, have left my feet tired and tight at the end of the day. Using the Foot Pro during my nightly routine has helped soothe my feet after a long work day or long weekday run.

How Does the Moji Foot Pro Work?

This massage “pod” has six multi-directional stainless steel spheres the user simply moves the foot across. The center sphere can be used for very targeted/deep massage while the other spheres can be used for more general massage. The coolest thing about this massager (literally) is that it can be put in the freezer and chilled for an ice cold massage when you’re ready.

Cost: $40

Pros: Easy to use and easy apply pressure where you need it. The ability to place it in the freezer for an iced massage is a very unique feature. The underside of the massager is solid and heavy with a nonslip surface that means it stays in place while you’re using it (unlike the golf ball I’m used to using).

Cons: If you’ve got ticklish feet, this may not be the tool for you. My husband, who I’ll admit is extremely ticklish, squealed and shrieked when he tried to use it – but that’s okay, I don’t like sharing anyways.

Interested in trying the TolaPoint or Moji Foot Pro Yourself?

Tell us why you’d love to add the TolaPoint or Moji Foot Pro to your massage routine by either commenting below, commenting on our Facebook post or sharing our post. By commenting and/or sharing this post (between now and June 30 at midnight), you’ll be entered for a chance to win one of 5 TolaPoint systems, one of 25 15% off coupons at TolaPoint or your very own Moji Foot Pro! You must tag or reference Minneapolis Running when sharing (use hastag #MPLSRunMassage).

Jennifer Fitzharris-Funk

Jennifer has been running for over 15 years. While she loves to run – her true passion is triathlon. She's been racing with TEAM SOAS since 2014.Jennifer likes to swim, bike and run in the city of Minneapolis where she lives with her husband and dogs, Ruby and Koa. Her favorite running (and swimming) route is around Lake Nokomis, where you'll often spot her with a four-legged running partner.Athlinks Profile

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